Sterile Fluid Connector with Expandable Multi-Path Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for fluid processing systems, particularly in pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries, face limitations in providing efficient and reliable fluid flow paths while maintaining sterility and minimizing leak points.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring two hollow connector bodies with expandable and collapsible positions, integrated locking mechanisms, and anti-actuation assemblies, allowing for flexible fluid flow paths and reduced leak points, along with removable caps and anti-actuation assemblies for enhanced sterility and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connectors are used for fluid processing systems, then connections can be established, but the number of leak points increases and sterility is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is divided into multiple sealed chambers (first chamber, second chamber, third chamber) that are fluidically isolated from each other. Each chamber can form connections independently through its own aperture, allowing multiple sterile connections to be made simultaneously without creating additional leak points between chambers. The segmentation creates independent fluid pathways that maintain sterility while enabling complex connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The design features nested structures where the hollow extension is integrated into the connector body, and the hollow projection is integrated into the second connector body. These nested elements create internal flow paths that are contained within the connector structure itself, reducing the need for external tubing and connection points that could potentially leak.
2Productivity
If multiple connections are made through the same connector, then fluid processing efficiency improves, but the risk of contamination and leaks increases
Solution Approach 1:
By creating multiple sealed chambers within a single connector body, the system allows multiple fluid connections to be made simultaneously through different apertures. Each chamber maintains its own sterile environment, enabling parallel fluid processing operations without cross-contamination between connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, creates multiple sealed chambers for independent connections, enables fluid flow through various pathways, and maintains sterility across all connection points. This multi-functional design allows a single connector to handle complex fluid processing tasks that would otherwise require multiple separate components.
3Reliability
If the connector structure is simplified to reduce leak points, then sterility improves, but the flexibility of fluid flow paths is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented chamber design provides internal flexibility through multiple flow pathways while maintaining external simplicity. Fluid can flow through different routes (first flow path, second flow path, third flow path) depending on which chambers are connected, allowing the connector to adapt to various connection configurations without compromising sterility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows dynamic configuration of fluid flow paths based on which chambers are connected and how the hollow extensions and projections are positioned. The system can transition between different operational modes (single connection, multiple connections, different flow directions) while maintaining a relatively simple sealed structure that prevents leaks.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A connector is provided comprising first and second hollow connector bodies, the connector having a first expanded position providing a first fluid flow path through the first hollow connector body, and a second collapsed position providing a second fluid flow path through the first and second hollow connector bodies.